UUSC's Not-So-Hidden Treasure

The National Volunteer Network

By Lauralyn Smith
Originally published in the Winter/Spring 2013 issue of Rights Now

One of UUSC's most valuable assets comes in the form of people power: the National Volunteer Network. Engaging fellow congregation members in UUSC's work, these volunteers gain personal growth and development while helping UUSC thrive.

The mainstay of the Volunteer Network is the local representative, who serves as a direct link between their congregation and UUSC. Local reps build solid relationships with congregational leadership, such as ministers, religious education professionals, board members, and social action committees. The local reps are UUSC's eye-to-eye partners in their congregations — people who are close to the ground, know and are trusted by those they serve, and share with UUSC their experience of how to best achieve mutual goals.

Local reps and other congregational volunteers help to raise approximately 12 percent of UUSC's annual revenue, a vital component of UUSC's annual budget. There are local reps serving in over 540 congregations nationwide. They are an important reason that UUSC is able to put 87 percent of its expenses toward program work, not administration. Local reps are vital in helping UUSC communicate effectively by mobilizing their congregations to act together when urgent issues need member participation.

Regional coordinators are experienced volunteer leaders who mentor 10 or so local reps in nearby congregations. Local reps not under the jurisdiction of a regional coordinator are mentored by UUSC staff. Regional coordinators aren't liaisons for a specific congregation, but they do help UUSC connect more broadly with UU districts and clusters. UUSC supports the Volunteer Network leadership with an annual training conference and ongoing support resources.

The Volunteer Network leadership also includes national cochairs, who participate in volunteer policy decisions. The cochairs, who oversee three territories in the United States, nominate and mentor 9–12 regional coordinators in their territory.

In addition to the roles listed above, UUSC also has a multitude of project coordinators — people who help with specific campaigns, such as Justice Sunday, an annual program that provides resources for learning, reflection, and action on a key human rights issue. More than 340 people facilitate Justice Sunday and many more work on other programs and projects.

The Volunteer Network — grassroots supporters joining together in their dedication to human rights — is one of UUSC's treasures. UUSC could not be as effective as it is without these volunteers!

Lauralyn Smith is UUSC's senior associate for member development. If you are interested in becoming a member of UUSC's National Volunteer Network, e-mail volunteerservices@uusc.org.